Nell Carter was an American singer and actress best known for her role as Nell Harper on the NBC sitcom Gimme a Break! She was also a Tony Award-winning stage actress and a Grammy Award-nominated recording artist. She released several albums throughout her career, including her debut album, Nell Carter Sings, in 1978. She was also a successful live performer, appearing in Broadway shows such as Ain't Misbehavin' and Fats Waller's musical revue.